TV debate, forums focus on bilingual education

By Anand Vaishnav, BostonGlobe Staff, 10/22/2002

upporters and proponents of bilingual education will square off in a live televised debate today, one of a number of forums exploring Question 2, which would replace the state's bilingual programs with English immersion.

Lincoln Tamayo, chairman of English for the Children of Massachusetts, which supports Question 2, will debate Tim Duncan, chairman of the Committee for Fairness to Children and Teachers, at 5:30 p.m. on WBZ-TV (Channel 4). It is the latest television appearance featuring speakers on the controversial issue of how best to change bilingual education. Massachusetts voters will consider Question 2 on Nov. 5.

The topic also will be discussed at a forum this morning sponsored by the Pioneer Institute, a Boston think tank, and the Boston Municipal Research Bureau. Lesley University also is hosting a panel discussion today at noon for Lesley students and teachers featuring opponents of Question 2. And tomorrow, Tufts University will sponsor a similar panel discussion at 7 p.m. on campus.

Question 2 is partially financed by Silicon Valley entrepreneur Ron Unz, who spearheaded similar campaigns in California and Arizona that passed, as well as one in Colorado to be decided Nov. 5.

This story ran on page B12 of the Boston Globe on 10/22/2002. © Copyright 2002 Globe Newspaper Company.